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AFN Greets Peacekeepers Pedaling for Aboriginal People with Diabetes

OTTAWA, May 20 /CNW Telbec/ - On Thursday morning, May 21st, the Assembly
of First Nations will greet the Peacekeepers Pedaling for Aboriginal People
with Diabetes (PPAD) as they set out on the last leg of their cross-Canada
bicycle tour. The tour focuses on working with Aboriginal communities to
promote awareness about diabetes.
The PPAD will leave from Ottawa on Thursday May 21st at 11:00 am and are
scheduled to arrive in St. John's Newfoundland on June 10th. PPAD cyclists
will be available to speak to media and for photo opportunities prior to their
departure.
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Thursday May 21, 2009
473 Albert Street, 11th Floor
Participating cyclists include Guy Lonechild (former Federation of
Saskatchewan Indian Nations Vice Chief), Warren Isbister (City of Saskatoon),
Mike Tantun (Central Urban Métis Federation Inc.) and members of the
Saskatchewan Police Department (Sgt. Tony Nadon, Sgt. Todd Bayly, Cst.
Corridawne MacKenzie).
PPAD cyclists give presentations to communities, schools and
organizations along or close to their bike route to increase awareness of Type
2 diabetes. The rate of diabetes among First Nations is 20 percent, which
means one in five First Nation people are diabetic. While there is no cure for
Type 2 diabetes, risks associated with diabetes can be reduced through diet,
exercise, early diagnosis and treatment. However, according to the First
Nations Regional Longitudinal Health Survey, 9 out of 10 First Nations adults
with diabetes have experienced loss of vision, problems with their legs and
feet; kidney infections or heart trouble, which suggests a need to further
promote awareness of how risks associated with diabetes can be reduced.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing
First Nations citizens in Canada.